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THE HAVANESE
boston terrier dog breed
The gentle and friendly Havanese with their soft coats and bright eyes are a favorite of apartment-dwellers. But this lively and intelligent “Dog of Cuba,” who is gaining popularity, was once nearly extinct.
Brief History
The Havanese is from a bloodline called the Barbet, now known as the Bichon family, descended from the Mediterranean area as far back as 600 B.C. Relative breeds include the poodle, the water spaniel, and the Portuguese Water Dog.
There is some dispute between dog historians about the origin of the Havanese. Some theorize that they descended from the Italian Bolognese and the South American Poodle. Others think their origin lies within the Maltese and that they were transported to the West Indies.
Cubans agree that the Havanese were brought by sailors as gifts intended to charm señoras in the early 1800s. The puppies were goodwill ambassadors, encouraging trade between the sea captains and wealthy Cuban families. The Havanese became a fixture in the homes of well-to-do citizens.
The Cuban Revolution of 1959 endangered this dog, as the population was forced to flee the country. They left pets behind in the care of friends and servants. A couple of families managed to smuggle their dogs out of the country. These were the first Havanese to arrive in the United States.
In 1974, the Goodales of Colorado began searching for a dog to enhance their breeding career. They wanted an intelligent companion dog, and in their search, they discovered an article about the Havanese in a Spanish magazine. They tracked down the Cuban families who had spirited the dogs out of the country and acquired six dogs from them. They expanded their search and located six more Havanese from a Cuban devotee in Costa Rica. Through their efforts with four bloodlines, they kept the breed from becoming extinct.
Five years later, the Goodales helped to found the Havanese Club of America. The United Kennel Club recognized the Havanese in 1991, and five years later, the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Physical Features
According to the AKC breed website, the Havanese has, “a curled-over tail and a gorgeous silky coat, which comes in a variety of colors.” The Havanese has a sturdy body that is longer than it is tall.
Average Height:
8.5-11.5 inches
Average Weight:
7-13 pounds
Life Expectancy:
14-16 years
Temperament
The Havanese is a fun animal and has a reputation for being a canine clown. They are intelligent and sturdy enough to compete in dog sports such as obedience and agility.
Special Needs
The Havanese is active and needs a sufficient amount of exercise daily. Their coats need regular brushing, although some owners like to let the hair grow in plaits.
Possible Health Concerns
Havanese can be prone to the following:
Hip dysplasia
Chondrodysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Cataracts
Legg-Perthes disease
Mitral valve insufficiency
Patellar luxation
Deafness
Heart murmur
Portosystemic shunt
the havanese
Exercise
The Havanese is a toy dog, but these animals require more exercise than some of the couch potato breeds. This lively, fun companion will keep you busy throwing a ball or even playing chase with a wad of paper. They enjoy climbing, and you may often find them on the back of your couch.
Nutrition
Because Havanese are keen-witted, they can quickly con their owners into feeding them only tasty table food. It takes a savvy owner to keep a Havanese on a strict diet of balanced kibble with some added meat or fish or steamed veggies.
The Havanese is a high-spirited and sweet companion. Knowing one will make you grateful that the breed is still around.
havanese
All About Guinea Pigs
If you like your pets warm and fluffy, cuddly and cute, tiny and tempered, then read on!
All About Arachnids
Arachnids are a family of crawling animals which includes spiders and scorpions. They are often referred to as creepy crawlies due to their ability to frighten. In modern times, they have been found to be quite delightful pets. For the last several years, people have kept arachnids as pets. One of the most popular ones is the tarantula spider. It’s a unique pet that is quiet, low maintenance, and requires little space. Keeping a tarantula can be an interesting hobby. Here’s how to take care of such a pet.
THE BIRMAN CAT
The Birman is a well composed cat with a sweet, tolerant and friendly nature. Also known as the sacred cats of Burma, this breed has very ancient origins which still remain unknown to the world of cat fanciers, standards and federations. Today’s Birman makes an excellent therapy pet suitable for families with children.
Brief History
There are many stories on the history of the Birman’s true origins. One common legend speaks of the Birman’s ancestors as holy cats that were kept at Mount Lugh temple in Burma. By early 20th century in around 1919 Birmans were introduced in France which became the first country in Europe to host this breed. European Cat fanciers visiting France from England and Germany took this breed back home and within no time the Birman grew quite popular amongst European households. Its migration from Europe to Australia was the next forthcoming step and from this country together with France, Germany and England, the Birman made its way into American soil.
Physical Features
The Birman is of medium size and has a round face with full cheeks. The ears are small while the oval shaped eyes are blue in color. Within their medium size is a strongly built body covered in a coat of lush and silky fur which feels soft when touched.
Average Height:
8-10 inches
Average Weight:
8-12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
13-15 years
Temperament
The Birman is friendly, highly social, self-assured and outgoing. Birmans are confident in familiar environments however their curiosity always leads them to a trail that they must explore. A strange environment is captivating to this cat and they’ll spend more time roaming about. If provoked or afraid a Birman will always glare at the source of provocation or fear before turning back to seek the comfort and reassurance of its owner.
Birman cat breed
Special Needs
The Birman cat is a gentle yet loyal breed that doesn’t like being left alone and always adores human company. If its owners are away, it will go to the nearest possible human company known or not known to them. This is a breed that participates in activities but not in an overly excited manner. Giving your pet Birman the freedom to explore its environment is crucial as they don’t like being put on a leash or behind closed doors for long periods.
Possible Health Concerns
As with all cat breeds both mixed-breed or pedigreed, Birmans are vulnerable to certain genetic disorders as well as health conditions. Breeders are advised to carefully screen their breeding stock for these health issues: Congenital hypotrichosis, Corneal dermoid, Spongiform degeneration, kittens born trembling or shaking and unusually high concentrations of creatinine or urea in the blood.
Exercise
Being curious cats, Birmans leave this nature for their passionate explorations rather than exercise. They exhibit moderate energy levels that requires little play and activity. Routine exercise doesn’t move this breed and if you want to instill this ideal you need to use positive methods that entice its curiosity. Exercise time should be adhered to strictly so your cat stays in good shape.
Nutrition
Birmans love feeding time more than any other time. During exercise, you can use treats to motivate this cat and make it livelier.
Grooming
The Birman’s long and lush coat doesn’t matt easily and requires minimal maintenance. They love to be washed and brushed making this grooming routine enjoyable to them and their owners. Its dense coat sheds but lightly so during this time its always ideal to brush the coat regularly and keep any loose dead hairs out.
THE LHASA APSO
The Lhasa Apso, also known as the Apso Seng Kye (bark lion dog), originated from Tibet thousands of years ago. It is part of the UKC, Companion Dog Group, and the AKC’s Non-Sporting Dog Group.
Brief History
The Lhasa Apso were used as guard dogs in monasteries and Buddhist temples in Tibet. The Lhasa has been associated with the Dalai Lama for centuries and was offered as a gift by the 14th Dalai Lama to the U.S in 1933. Lhasa is a sacred city in Tibet. Apso means a “longhaired dog.”
Physical Features
The Lhasa Apso is small, yet feisty. They have a medium-length muzzle, dark brown eyes and a black nose. With ears that are pendant, and catlike feet, the Lhasa carries their tails over its back. Their tails also have a kink at the end.
This breed has lots of long hair and also has a beard. Their coats come in any color, and is heavy, straight, and long. The hair is parted centrally from the head to the tail.
Average Height:
10-11 inches
Average Weight:
14-15 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Temperament
The Lhasa Apso is watchful, yet can be friendly. This dog breed is affectionate with family, and enjoys human company. It may be wary of strangers, and sometimes children. This is a happy dog breed that thrives on being pampered. This dog breed should begin with socialization and positive puppy training early on during puppyhood.
The Lhasa is quick to learn, but needs plenty of rewards to become motivated. This breed does not do well with harsh reprimands or long periods of training. They need to be positively trained with short training sessions to maintain focus and enthusiasm. Quite willful, yet sensitive and playful, the Lhasa bonds very closely to his dog parents and will sulk if left behind.
Lhasa Apso
Special Needs
The Lhasa Apso needs plenty of attention and regular exercise. This breed does well with a dog parent that is nurturing and understanding. This breed needs to be careful when climbing stairs, so as not to injure their backs. The Lhasa adores being pampered 24/7, in fact, they often demand it!
Possible Health Concerns
Hereditary Renal Disease: Hereditary renal disease in the Lhasa is common. Kidney malformations are called dysplasias, and occur when the kidneys do not develop properly before birth. When the kidneys are too small, this is called hypoplasia. This can occur in one or both kidneys. Kidneys will be pale, small, and firm. Symptoms include excessive thirst and excessive urination.
Cherry Eye. (Prolapsed Nictitans Gland) This is the inflammation of the Harderian gland, which is an accessory tear gland. This can result in dry eye. It is common in young dogs, and certain dog breeds like the Lhasa Apso. With this disorder, the gland of the nictitating membrane thickens and slips out of its proper place. When this disorder becomes severe, the red glandular mass swells and protrudes over the edge of the membrane, hence the name “cherry eye.”
Skin Allergies: Lhasa’s may be prone to Atopic Dermatitis. This is caused by an abnormal immune system response. There are many allergies which can affect the skin, and are caused by fleas, dog food and other allergens like pollen in the air. Consult with your veterinarian if your Lhasa suffers from intense itching.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is the name for a group of diseases that cause degeneration of the retina. This will include inherited abnormalities of the light- sensitive cells.
Hip Dysplasia is the abnormal development of the hip joint in dog breeds like the Lhasa Apso. It is generally characterized by a loose joint, and then degenerative joint disease.
Patellar Luxation: This is a hereditary condition that is caused by the abnormal development of the kneecap(patella).X-rays will aid in seeing the severity of the displacement. Treatment usually involves surgical options.
Exercise
All dogs need exercise, some more so than others! The Lhasa Apso dog breed is one that does well with fun exercise schedules. Off-leash runs at the dog park or beach work wonders to keep your pooch calm and focused. Combining that with positive training classes, allows for your Lhasa to be happy and healthy.
Grooming
The Lhasa Apso has a long coat that will need to be maintained to prevent matting. It’s best with this breed to opt for a professional clipping. Daily grooming is necessary to maintain coat and skin health. It also promotes new hair growth. Try finishing sprays and dry canine shampoos as well.
Teeth need to be brushed daily with a canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Ears need to be cleaned weekly and checked for sensitivity. Nails trimmed as needed. Your Lhasa will need to have a professional dental cleaning twice a year.
The feisty and stubborn Lhasa Apso adapts easily to any home. Although they may look like couch potatoes, this dog breed needs exercise and mental stimulation. The Lhasa does well in home environments that will pamper them. This dog breed needs a firm dog parent, and consistent housetraining with lots of fun canine sports that the entire family can partake in.
WHAT IS THE IDITAROD?
Known to few, loved by many, the Iditarod is a world-famous Trail Sled Dog Race that dates back to 1973. With a long and somewhat controversial history, it has also coined the nickname ‘The Last Great Race on Earth®’.
THE BRITISH SHORTHAIR CAT
The British Shorthair is an ancient cat breed that originated from the U.K. It is thought that this cat breed dates as far back as the first century AD. Historians believed that the Egyptians took domesticated Egyptians cats to the U.K, resulting in the interbreeding of these cats with the European wildcat population.
Brief History
The British Shorthair was the only pedigreed cat breed at cat shows during the Victorian era. During WW1 and WW2, the British Shorthair almost vanished, but thanks to cat breeders in the U.K, this breed was kept alive. By 1967, the British Shorthair was recognized by the American Cat Association. The Cat Fancier Association recognized this breed in 1980. Today, all cat associations recognize the British Shorthair. This cat breed is renowned for its strength and hunting ability. Many are under the assumption that this cat breed is blue in color. The British Shorthair comes in various colors of which blue –grey or “British Blue” is the most popular.
Physical Features
The British Shorthair is a large cat breed with a broad chest. Their legs are strong with large paws. The tail is blunt-tipped, and of medium- length. With a round head, and large round eyes, the British Shorthair has a short muzzle and round cheeks.
The British Shorthair matures slowly, and will reach peak physical development at three years of age. This is a dimorphic cat breed, in which males are larger than the females. The coat is plush and thick with no undercoat. There are noticeable “crisp” hairlines that are raised when the British Shorthair walks or runs. Coat colors can be found in solid colors, colorpoint, tabby, shaded, and bicolor patterns.
Average Height:
12-14 inches
Average Weight:
8-14 pounds
Life Expectancy:
14-20 years
Temperament
The British Shorthair is an intelligent cat breed that adapts easily to new surroundings, and enjoys being around people, even children. The British Shorthair gets along well with other animals like rabbits, dogs, other cats, and even horses. This breed tends to be clumsy, yet is moderately active. This is a kind and sweet-natured cat breed that is devoted to family. The British Shorthair does well with being an indoor cat.
british shorthair cat
Special Needs
The British Shorthair does best as an indoor cat. This breed thrives on affection, and plenty of cat toys. This breed is proud, and enjoys positive clicker training. It is non-aggressive with other cats. Eye tearing may be a problem with this cat breed. Inactive cats tend to pick up weight, and are prone to more medical conditions, like liver disease. Daily grooming needs to be a priority with this breed.
Exercising cats is more difficult than with dogs, yet cat parents can do so by purchasing certain cats toys to promote exercise.
Possible Health Concerns
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: This is a heart muscle disorder where the heart walls of the left ventricle thicken. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, weakness or paralysis of the hind limbs. Fluid may also accumulate in the lungs, and in the space between the lungs and chest wall.
Gingivitis: This is when the gums become inflamed due to bacterial plaque. Gum color in cats will change from a light pink to red or purple. The gum edge wills well. Symptoms include bleeding and bad breath. This can be reversed with proper teeth cleaning. However it can worsen and result in periodontitis.
Polycystic Kidney Disease. This occurs when there are numerous cysts within the functioning part of the kidney, resulting in enlarged kidneys. Consult with your veterinarian if your cat vomits frequently, has a decreased appetite, and increased thirst or urination.
Exercise
Playtime for indoor cats is extremely important.
The British Shorthair cat breed needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people.
This cat breed is a moderately active cat breed that thrives on being with family members. Cat gyms, cat scratchers, and interactive cat toys within a cat friendly home environment work best for this breed.
Grooming
The British Shorthair needs daily grooming for skin and coat health. Because this breed is a shorthair cat breed, taking care of this cat breed is super easy. This cat breed has a short and smooth coat. Ears should be checked weekly for cleanliness and sensitivity.
THE BICHON FRISE
The Bichon Frise, also known as the Tenerife Bichon, originated from France. It belongs to the UKC; Non Sporting Group, and has been around since the 14th century. It is thought that the Bichon first arrived in Tenerife with Italian traders who traded their dogs for goods.
Brief History
The Bichon Frise was bred in the Mediterranean region during the Middle Ages. It was named the Tenerife Bichon, and was a favorite among the French nobility during the 1500’s. By the 1800s, the Bichon was a popular companion dog in France, and was also used for circus performances.
The Bichon arrived in the U.S in the mid-twentieth century. During the 20th century, the Bichon faced difficult times during both wars, and became less popular. The Bichon became popular again when the breed was recognized in 1933 under the “Society Central Canine as the “Bichon with the curly hair.” In 1964, the Bichon Frise Club was formed in the U.S. The AKC accepted the Bichon in 1971 under the miscellaneous class, and in 1973 as a Non-Sporting Group.
Physical Features
The Bichon Frise is a small and sturdy dog. The Bichon has a rounded skull, with a short muzzle, and a strong lower jaw. With curious rounded dark brown or black eyes, the Bichon has high-set drop ears that are set forward on its head. This breed carries a medium-length plumed tail that curls over its back.
Bichons have double-coats with a very soft undercoat, and a medium-length outercoat. They have lots of hair on the head, beard, mustache, ears and tail. The coloring of this dog breed is white, but the Bichon can also be found with a buff, cream, or apricot color around ears and body.
Average Height:
9.5-11.5 inches
Average Weight:
10-14 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
Temperament
The Bichon is gentle and affectionate. This breed is always cheerful and playful, and makes for a great companion dog. The Bichon has a positive attitude, but may be difficult to housebreak. Positive dog training and early socialization is recommended. Bichons are good with children, and need to be around family. They enjoy daily trips in the car, and love sitting on your lap when out and about. They are also very easy to manage in restaurants, or when out shopping.
Special Needs
The Bichon is prone to weight problems, and should be kept at the correct weight. Avoid feeding bits from the dinner table. It’s hard to resist the affectionate Bichon begging at the dinner table, but be sure to feed only healthy foods. Bichons need regular grooming, socialization and housetraining.
Possible Health Concerns
The Bichon is an active and healthy dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Autoimmune Disease refers to the abnormal functioning of the immune system. The Bichon may be predisposed to this. Consult with your veterinarian for more advice.
Bladder Problems. Some Bichons may be predisposed to urinary stones (uroliths). The best way to try and prevent this is to always supply lots of fresh water. The most common uroliths found in the Bichon Frise is the magnesium ammonium phosphate (struvite) and calcium oxalate uroliths. Medical, dietary, and surgical options are three options that your vet will discuss with you.
Eye Diseases that are common in Bichons include Cataracts, Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome, SARDS, Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA, Glaucoma, and Keratitis Sicca. Consult with your veterinarian for ophthalmic care.
Luxating Patellas. This is a hereditary condition that is caused by the abnormal development of the kneecap(patella). X-rays will aid in seeing the severity of the displacement. Treatment usually involves surgical options.
Dental Problems. The Bichon Frise needs proper dental care, including preventative methods like daily tooth brushing, which will help prevent gum disease, periodontitis and endodontic disease.
Exercise
The Bichon Frise needs daily exercise every day to stay fit, and to not pick up weight. This breed enjoys being indoors with their pet parent, and is such an easy keeper. Additionally, this breed is moderately active meaning that daily walks suffice, though dog park visits are always welcome. Bichon’s love quality time with their pet parent, so be sure to take them on your adventures when possible!
Nutrition
Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet for this small and short breed. The Bichon picks up weight very easily, and can get to be obese rather fast. Feed a complete and balanced food for the appropriate life stage of your Bichon. Always consult with your veterinarian if your dog develops food allergies, and needs a change of diet.
Grooming
The Bichon has a wonderful coat that needs to be maintained daily. Bichons suffer from sensitive eyes, and the hair close to the eyes will need to be trimmed regularly. The Bichon should be bathed once a week, and tends to enjoy a visit to the groomers. Most Bichon pet parents find it easier to take their Bichons to a professional groomer every 4 weeks. This is a hypoallergenic dog breed, and suits pet parents that suffer from allergies.
Ears also need to be checked often for signs of infection. As usual, teeth need to be brushed daily, and a twice yearly dental cleaning at the vet is recommended to prevent dental disease.
Bichons are a popular dog breed to adopt. These pups enjoy apartment living, and are easy to keep. With its gentle demeanor and playful nature, the Bichon does not bark a lot and gets along with everyone they encounter.
